A STOURPORT flat is set to be refurbished to provide new temporary accommodation for homeless families as an alternative to bed and breakfast facilities.

Plans have been approved to convert the first floor flat above Mark's Fishing Tackle at 11b Raven Street into temporary housing for families in need.

A proposal to refurbish the property, owned by Wyre Forest District Council, was introduced at an overview and scrutiny committee on Tuesday, November 12.

The council say the self-contained accommodation will save money and generate more income.

Kate Bailey, Wyre Forest District Council’s head of strategic growth said: "We are proposing to refurbish the first floor flat, above the fishing tackle shop, at 11b Raven Street.

"When completed the flat will provide much needed self contained accommodation for families and it will give us an alternative to using private sector bed and breakfast facilities, saving the council money and generating additional income.”

Deputy leader of the council Fran Oborski says the plan is in response to increasing homelessness in Wyre Forest.

"We have got to make sure we fulfill our obligation to provide accommodation and it will help keep people in the community.

The councillor also says the refurb will be made as soon as possible.